EP1352663A2 - Appareils servant à la fabrication de raccords steriles pour fluides et leurs méthodes d'utilisation - Google Patents

Appareils servant à la fabrication de raccords steriles pour fluides et leurs méthodes d'utilisation Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1352663A2
EP1352663A2 EP03252338A EP03252338A EP1352663A2 EP 1352663 A2 EP1352663 A2 EP 1352663A2 EP 03252338 A EP03252338 A EP 03252338A EP 03252338 A EP03252338 A EP 03252338A EP 1352663 A2 EP1352663 A2 EP 1352663A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
fill
tube
fluid
port
cavity
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP03252338A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Other versions
EP1352663A3 (fr
Inventor
Kenneth L. Bibbo
Gregory P. Elgan
Michael Goodwin
Bradley Buchanan
William Wages
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Hyclone Laboratories LLC
Original Assignee
Hyclone Laboratories LLC
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Hyclone Laboratories LLC filed Critical Hyclone Laboratories LLC
Publication of EP1352663A2 publication Critical patent/EP1352663A2/fr
Publication of EP1352663A3 publication Critical patent/EP1352663A3/fr
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2/00—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
    • A61L2/02—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor using physical phenomena
    • A61L2/08—Radiation
    • A61L2/087—Particle radiation, e.g. electron-beam, alpha or beta radiation
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2/00—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
    • A61L2/02—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor using physical phenomena
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2/00—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
    • A61L2/02—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor using physical phenomena
    • A61L2/04—Heat
    • A61L2/06—Hot gas
    • A61L2/07—Steam
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2/00—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
    • A61L2/02—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor using physical phenomena
    • A61L2/08—Radiation
    • A61L2/10—Ultra-violet radiation
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2/00—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
    • A61L2/16—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor using chemical substances
    • A61L2/18—Liquid substances or solutions comprising solids or dissolved gases
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2/00—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
    • A61L2/16—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor using chemical substances
    • A61L2/20—Gaseous substances, e.g. vapours
    • A61L2/208—Hydrogen peroxide
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2/00—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
    • A61L2/26—Accessories or devices or components used for biocidal treatment
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F23/00—Mixing according to the phases to be mixed, e.g. dispersing or emulsifying
    • B01F23/50—Mixing liquids with solids
    • B01F23/53—Mixing liquids with solids using driven stirrers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F27/00—Mixers with rotary stirring devices in fixed receptacles; Kneaders
    • B01F27/80—Mixers with rotary stirring devices in fixed receptacles; Kneaders with stirrers rotating about a substantially vertical axis
    • B01F27/91—Mixers with rotary stirring devices in fixed receptacles; Kneaders with stirrers rotating about a substantially vertical axis with propellers
    • B01F27/911—Mixers with rotary stirring devices in fixed receptacles; Kneaders with stirrers rotating about a substantially vertical axis with propellers forcing the material through orifices or slits, e.g. in a stationary part
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F31/00—Mixers with shaking, oscillating, or vibrating mechanisms
    • B01F31/44—Mixers with shaking, oscillating, or vibrating mechanisms with stirrers performing an oscillatory, vibratory or shaking movement
    • B01F31/441—Mixers with shaking, oscillating, or vibrating mechanisms with stirrers performing an oscillatory, vibratory or shaking movement performing a rectilinear reciprocating movement
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F31/00—Mixers with shaking, oscillating, or vibrating mechanisms
    • B01F31/44—Mixers with shaking, oscillating, or vibrating mechanisms with stirrers performing an oscillatory, vibratory or shaking movement
    • B01F31/449—Stirrers constructions
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F33/00—Other mixers; Mixing plants; Combinations of mixers
    • B01F33/70—Mixers specially adapted for working at sub- or super-atmospheric pressure, e.g. combined with de-foaming
    • B01F33/71—Mixers specially adapted for working at sub- or super-atmospheric pressure, e.g. combined with de-foaming working at super-atmospheric pressure, e.g. in pressurised vessels
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F35/00—Accessories for mixers; Auxiliary operations or auxiliary devices; Parts or details of general application
    • B01F35/50—Mixing receptacles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F35/00—Accessories for mixers; Auxiliary operations or auxiliary devices; Parts or details of general application
    • B01F35/50—Mixing receptacles
    • B01F35/513—Flexible receptacles, e.g. bags supported by rigid containers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F35/00—Accessories for mixers; Auxiliary operations or auxiliary devices; Parts or details of general application
    • B01F35/71—Feed mechanisms
    • B01F35/712—Feed mechanisms for feeding fluids
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F35/00—Accessories for mixers; Auxiliary operations or auxiliary devices; Parts or details of general application
    • B01F35/71—Feed mechanisms
    • B01F35/717—Feed mechanisms characterised by the means for feeding the components to the mixer
    • B01F35/7173—Feed mechanisms characterised by the means for feeding the components to the mixer using gravity, e.g. from a hopper
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F35/00—Accessories for mixers; Auxiliary operations or auxiliary devices; Parts or details of general application
    • B01F35/71—Feed mechanisms
    • B01F35/717—Feed mechanisms characterised by the means for feeding the components to the mixer
    • B01F35/7179—Feed mechanisms characterised by the means for feeding the components to the mixer using sprayers, nozzles or jets
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F35/00—Accessories for mixers; Auxiliary operations or auxiliary devices; Parts or details of general application
    • B01F35/71—Feed mechanisms
    • B01F35/717—Feed mechanisms characterised by the means for feeding the components to the mixer
    • B01F35/71805—Feed mechanisms characterised by the means for feeding the components to the mixer using valves, gates, orifices or openings
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F35/00—Accessories for mixers; Auxiliary operations or auxiliary devices; Parts or details of general application
    • B01F35/71—Feed mechanisms
    • B01F35/717—Feed mechanisms characterised by the means for feeding the components to the mixer
    • B01F35/71815—Feed mechanisms characterised by the means for feeding the components to the mixer using vibrations, e.g. standing waves or ultrasonic vibrations
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61J—CONTAINERS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR MEDICAL OR PHARMACEUTICAL PURPOSES; DEVICES OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR BRINGING PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS INTO PARTICULAR PHYSICAL OR ADMINISTERING FORMS; DEVICES FOR ADMINISTERING FOOD OR MEDICINES ORALLY; BABY COMFORTERS; DEVICES FOR RECEIVING SPITTLE
    • A61J1/00—Containers specially adapted for medical or pharmaceutical purposes
    • A61J1/05—Containers specially adapted for medical or pharmaceutical purposes for collecting, storing or administering blood, plasma or medical fluids ; Infusion or perfusion containers
    • A61J1/10—Bag-type containers
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61J—CONTAINERS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR MEDICAL OR PHARMACEUTICAL PURPOSES; DEVICES OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR BRINGING PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS INTO PARTICULAR PHYSICAL OR ADMINISTERING FORMS; DEVICES FOR ADMINISTERING FOOD OR MEDICINES ORALLY; BABY COMFORTERS; DEVICES FOR RECEIVING SPITTLE
    • A61J1/00—Containers specially adapted for medical or pharmaceutical purposes
    • A61J1/14—Details; Accessories therefor
    • A61J1/1475—Inlet or outlet ports
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61J—CONTAINERS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR MEDICAL OR PHARMACEUTICAL PURPOSES; DEVICES OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR BRINGING PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS INTO PARTICULAR PHYSICAL OR ADMINISTERING FORMS; DEVICES FOR ADMINISTERING FOOD OR MEDICINES ORALLY; BABY COMFORTERS; DEVICES FOR RECEIVING SPITTLE
    • A61J3/00—Devices or methods specially adapted for bringing pharmaceutical products into particular physical or administering forms
    • A61J3/002—Compounding apparatus specially for enteral or parenteral nutritive solutions
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C12—BIOCHEMISTRY; BEER; SPIRITS; WINE; VINEGAR; MICROBIOLOGY; ENZYMOLOGY; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING
    • C12M—APPARATUS FOR ENZYMOLOGY OR MICROBIOLOGY; APPARATUS FOR CULTURING MICROORGANISMS FOR PRODUCING BIOMASS, FOR GROWING CELLS OR FOR OBTAINING FERMENTATION OR METABOLIC PRODUCTS, i.e. BIOREACTORS OR FERMENTERS
    • C12M23/00—Constructional details, e.g. recesses, hinges
    • C12M23/02—Form or structure of the vessel
    • C12M23/14—Bags
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C12—BIOCHEMISTRY; BEER; SPIRITS; WINE; VINEGAR; MICROBIOLOGY; ENZYMOLOGY; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING
    • C12M—APPARATUS FOR ENZYMOLOGY OR MICROBIOLOGY; APPARATUS FOR CULTURING MICROORGANISMS FOR PRODUCING BIOMASS, FOR GROWING CELLS OR FOR OBTAINING FERMENTATION OR METABOLIC PRODUCTS, i.e. BIOREACTORS OR FERMENTERS
    • C12M27/00—Means for mixing, agitating or circulating fluids in the vessel

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to systems for forming sterile fluid connections and methods for using such systems.
  • the invention provides a method for preparation of a solution, the method comprising: positioning a mixing bag assembly within a tank, the mixing bag assembly comprising a flexible bag bounding a compartment and a mixer at least partially disposed within the compartment; preferably inflating the mixing bag in the tank with a gas; positioning two or more components within the compartment of the mixing bag, at least one of the components being a liquid; and mixing the two or more components within the compartment using the mixer at least partially disposed within the bag.
  • the invention provides a dispensing system comprising: a sterilizing filter having an inlet port and an outlet port; a substantially rigid fill tube having an interior surface bounding a sterile channel extending between a first end and an opposing second end; an extension tube having an interior surface bounding a sterile fluid pathway extending between a first end and an opposing second end, the first end of the extension tube being fluid coupled with the outlet port of the sterilizing filter, the second end of the extension tube being fluid coupled with the first end of the fill tube; and a cap removably disposed on the second end of the fill tube so as to seal the channel closed thereat.
  • the invention provides A method for forming a sterile fluid connection, the method comprising: inserting a dispensing end of a fill tube into a cavity of a sterilizer, the fill tube having an interior surface bounding a channel extending therethrough, a cap being removably mounted on the dispensing end of the fill tube so as to seal the channel closed thereat; generating an sterilizing field within the cavity of the sterilizer; removing the cap from the dispensing end of the fill tube while the dispensing end of the fill tube is exposed to the sterilizing field; positioning a first fill port within the cavity of the sterilizer; fluid coupling the dispensing end of the fill tube with the first fill port in the cavity of the sterilizer while the dispensing end of the fill tube and the first fill port are exposed to the sterilizing field; and passing a fluid from the fill tube to the first fill port.
  • the invention provides a sterilizer comprising: a housing bounding a cavity; means for generating a sterilizing field within the cavity; a pair of shuttles which selectively move into and out of the housing, at least a portion of one of the shuttles being exposed to the cavity when within the housing, the shuttles also being selectively movable between separated and mated positions; and a fill tube passageway extending through at least a portion of the housing so as to communicate with the cavity.
  • base materials Culture media, buffers, reagents and other biological materials (hereinafter “base materials”) are used extensively by biotech companies in research and development, creating vaccines, producing and purifying proteins, and developing other biologicals. To be safe and effective for their intended use, these base materials must be pure and sterile. As such, base materials are typically made by specialized manufacturers or end-users that have made large investments in sophisticated equipment and facilities. Such equipment and facilities are operated under highly controlled procedures that are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other related agencies.
  • FDA Food and Drug Administration
  • the base materials are hydrated in large stainless steel tanks where purified water is combined with a precise amount of a desired base material in its powdered form. Some supplements may be added in liquid form as well. A special mixer is then used to mix the components into the desired end solution. Once the solution is prepared, the solution is filtered and may be directly used or dispensed and sealed into sterile containers for shipment or storage. The entire system is typically operated in some form of clean room.
  • the powdered base materials can be stored for an extended period of time under relatively ambient conditions, the final liquid solutions must typically be stored under refrigerated conditions and have a significantly shorter shelf life. Due to the required refrigeration, storage of significant amounts of the base materials in their solution form can be expensive.
  • Fluid preparation system 10 is used for mixing two or more components, at least one of the components being liquid, so as to produce a homogeneous solution.
  • each of the components can be liquid, in one typical embodiment one component is a substantially dry material such a powder, grain, granule or other form of solid while the other component is a liquid such as water.
  • Fluid preparation system 10 can be used in producing any form of solution including those which are sterile and those which are non-sterile.
  • fluid preparation system 10 is used in the manufacture of culture media, buffers, reagents and other biological materials that may or may not be sterile.
  • fluid preparation system 10 is designed so that structural components of the system that are directly in contact with the solution are disposable. Accordingly, as fluid preparation system 10 is shifted between the manufacture of different batches or types of solutions, the contaminated components are simply replaced with new components. Depending on the component and the intended solution, the new component can be sterile or non-sterile. As a result, multiple different solutions can be manufactured relatively quickly without the down time and added expense of sterilization or cleaning of the system. In other embodiments, however, select or all of the components of the system can be designed for sterilization and reuse.
  • fluid preparation system 10 comprises a tank assembly 20 mounted on a platform 12, a mixing assembly 200 at least partially disposed within tank assembly 20, a filtration system 500 in fluid communication with mixing assembly 200, and a dispensing system 700 in fluid communication with filtration system 500.
  • fluid preparation system 10 includes movable platform 12 on which all or some of the components of fluid preparation system 10 are mounted. If desired, some or all of the system components can be mounted on platform 12 at a manufacturing facility prior to shipping and final assembly at an end user location. Fluid preparation system 10 can thus be formed as a modular unit that is relatively easily moved between different facilities. Alternatively, the various components can be mounted on and/or about platform 12 at the end user location. In another embodiment, it is appreciated that platform 12 is not required and that fluid preparation system 10 can be permanently or otherwise assembled at an end user facility.
  • Tank assembly 20 comprises a plurality of legs 22 upstanding from platform 12 and supporting an annular side wall 24.
  • side wall 24 has an interior surface 26 and an exterior surface 28 each extending between an upper end 30 and an opposing lower end 32. Interior surface 26 at least partially bounds a chamber 60.
  • Side wall 24 has a tubular configuration so that upper end 30 and lower end 32 are open.
  • Side wall 24 comprises a body portion 23 having a substantially C-shaped transverse cross section.
  • Body portion 23 terminates at substantially opposingly facing end plates 54 and 56 with a doorway 57 formed therebetween.
  • a support brace 58 rigidly extends between end plates 54 and 56 at lower end 32.
  • Body portion 23 comprises an outer wall 34, a concentrically disposed inner wall 36 and a central wall 38 concentrically disposed between outer wall 34 and inner wall 36.
  • Each of walls 34, 36, and 38 connect with each of end plates 54 and 56.
  • Disposed between outer wall 34 and central wall 38 is an insulation layer 40.
  • insulation layer 40 comprises a chloride free, ceramic fiber capable of withstanding temperatures up to 1,300 °C. Other conventional types of insulation can also be used.
  • Extending between central wall 38 and inner wall 36 are a plurality of spaced apart spacers 42. Spacers 42 can comprise discrete members or formations projecting from central wall 38 and or inner wall 36. Spacers 42 provide structural stability for both central wall 38 and inner wall 36 while forming fluid channels 44 which allow fluid to flow between central wall 38 and inner wall 36 and around spacers 42.
  • FIG. 3 depicted in Figure 3 is a cutaway view showing the outside face of inner wall 36 with spacers 42 projecting therefrom.
  • Each of inner wall 36, central wall 38, and out wall 34 extend between and rigidly connect with a top plate 70 and an opposing bottom plate 72.
  • support brace 58 can be integrally formed with bottom plate 72.
  • a plurality of vertically oriented spaced apart slots 68 extend through body portion 23 from toward bottom plate 72 to toward top plate 70. Slots 68 generally divide body portion 23 into a plurality of sections 74.
  • Each of inner wall 36, central wall 38, and outer wall 34 also connect with side plates 76 and 78 that bound each side of each slot 68. As a result, fluid channels 44 are sealed closed in each section 74 of body portion 23.
  • a transition pipe 80 extends between each section 74 at upper end 30. Each opposing end of transition pipe 80 is in fluid communication with a corresponding fluid channel 44.
  • a plurality of spaced apart, vertically oriented channeling ribs 82 extend between inner wall 36 and central wall 38. Channeling ribs 82 are positioned such that as fluid flows radially about body portion 23, the fluid is also forced to flow in a sinusoidal path along the height of body portion 23.
  • a fluid inlet pipe 62 is connected with body portion 23 at lower end 32 adjacent to end plate 54 while a fluid outlet pipe 64 is connected with body portion 23 at lower end 32 adjacent to end plate 56.
  • Each of inlet pipe 62 and outlet pipe 64 are in fluid communication with fluid channels 44.
  • the fluid As fluid is pumped into fluid inlet pipe 62, the fluid enters a fluid channel 44 through an inlet port 66 in Figure 3.
  • the fluid As a result of being bounded between side plate 76 and end plate 54, the fluid travels vertically upward and around spacers 42.
  • the fluid passes through transition pipe 80 into the next adjacent section 74.
  • the fluid continues to vertically travel up and down so as to pass around channeling ribs 82.
  • the fluid is then heated or cooled, depending on desired operating parameters, and then reintroduced back through fluid inlet pipe 62.
  • the fluid passing through fluid channels 44 is a mixture of water and propylene glycol.
  • the fluid can be any material that can be used for heating and/or cooling.
  • means are provided for selectively heating or cooling a solution held within chamber 60 of tank assembly 20.
  • One example of such means comprises fluid channels 44 and related structure as discussed above.
  • a solution is disposed within chamber 60.
  • the fluid acts as either a heat sink by drawing energy from the solution through inner wall 36 or as a heat source by inputting energy into the solution through inner wall 36, thereby heating or cooling the solution.
  • channeling ribs 82 function to uniformly distribute the fluid over the exterior surface of inner wall 36 so as to uniformly control the temperature of the solution within chamber 60.
  • channeling ribs 82 and fluid channels 44 can be oriented to flow in a variety of different paths.
  • body portion 32 can be formed without channeling ribs 82.
  • open fluid channels 44 can be replaced with piping that runs on the interior, exterior, and/or within inner wall 36.
  • the piping is configured to have the heating or cooling fluid run therethrough.
  • Electrical heating elements can also be positioned on the interior, exterior, and/or within the inner wall 36 to facilitate heating of solutions within chamber 60.
  • the solution within chamber 60 can be pumped out of chamber 60 where it is then selectively heated or cooled through conventional systems and then cycled back into chamber 60.
  • side wall 24 also comprises a door 25 disposed within doorway 57 between end plates 54 and 56.
  • door 25 comprises an outer wall 34 and an inner wall 36.
  • door 25 does not include a central wall 38. Rather, a layer of insulation 40 is disposed between walls 34 and 36.
  • door 25 can also include fluid channels 44 which communicate with body portion 23 through flexible hose connections.
  • a vertically oriented, elongated viewing slot 46 extends through a portion of door 25.
  • a window 48 is disposed within viewing slot 46 so as to seal viewing slot 46 closed but provide an unobstructed view of chamber 60.
  • Door 25 is mounted to body portion 23 by hinges 50.
  • a handle 52 is formed on door 25 to facilitate hinged movement of door 25 between an open position (not shown) wherein free access is provided to chamber 60 through open doorway 57 and a closed position wherein door 25 closes off doorway 57.
  • means are provided for selectively locking door 25 in the closed position.
  • a vertically oriented, tubular housing 90 is movable mounted along end plate 56 of body portion 23. Housing 90 has a front face with a plurality of vertically spaced apart stops 102 formed thereon. Each stop 102 has an engagement face 104 that slopes toward chamber 60.
  • An actuation rod 92 extends through housing 90 in parallel alignment therewith.
  • Actuation rod 92 is rigidly secured to housing 90 by bolts 94 or the like and extends between a first end 96 and an opposing second end 98.
  • First end 96 of actuation rod 92 projects up above tubular housing 90.
  • Second end 98 of actuation rod 92 is coupled with a hydraulic piston 100 disposed below support brace 58.
  • actuation rod 92 is selectively raised and lowered which in turn selectively raises and lowers housing 90.
  • actuation rod 92 is moved to a lowered position and door 25 is moved to the closed position. In this configuration, locking flanges 106 are disposed between stops 102. Hydraulic piston 100 is then used to elevate actuation rod 92. In so doing, housing 90 and stops 102 rise so that engagement face 104 of each stop 102 biases against a corresponding locking flange 106. Engagement faces 104 are sloped so as to bias locking flanges 106 radially inward, thereby locking door 25 closed.
  • a plate 108 having a hole extending therethrough projects from the upper end of door 25.
  • the hole in plate 108 is aligned with actuation rod 92.
  • first end 96 of actuation rod 92 passes through the hole in plate 108.
  • hydraulic piston 100 can be replaced by a pneumatic piston, gear or belt drive, crank, jack, or other drive mechanism.
  • locking flanges 106 and stops 102 can be switched or replaced with a variety of other conventional interlocking members.
  • a variety of shafts can be positioned so as to selectively drive from one of door 25 or body portion 23 into or against the other thereof. Hand operated dead bolts and other conventional locking structures can also be used.
  • tank assembly 20 further comprises a floor 110 disposed within or within alignment of the interior of side wall 24.
  • Floor 110 comprises a substantially flat base floor 112.
  • base floor 112 is circular and extends to a perimeter edge 114.
  • a plurality of open port holes 116 extend through base floor 112.
  • a central port hole 117 also extends through base floor 112.
  • a plurality of screened spill holes 118 are also formed on base floor 112.
  • a peripheral wall 120 upwardly and outwardly slops from perimeter edge 114 of base floor 112 to a terminal edge 122.
  • Outwardly projecting from terminal edge 122 is a lip 124.
  • Lip 124 is either biased directly against or terminates directly adjacent to interior surface 26 of side wall 24. Except for lip 124, the remainder of floor 110 and the walls of side wall 24 are typically made of a metal such as stainless steel.
  • lip 124 is typically made of polypropylene but can also be made of resilient materials such as rubber, silicone, Vitor, Teflon, and other moldable plastics.
  • floor 112 has a substantially frustoconical configuration.
  • floor 112 can be entirely flat, curved, pyramidal, conical, or any other desired configuration that can support a bag as discussed below.
  • floor 112 need not be circular but can be polygonal, elliptical, irregular, or any other desired configuration.
  • means are provided for selectively raising and lowering floor 112 relative to side wall 24.
  • rotatably mounted on the exterior of side wall 24 in vertical alignment with each slot 68 thereof is a threaded shaft 130.
  • a driver 138 is mounted at the bottom of each shaft 130 to selectively rotate each shaft 130.
  • a collar 134 encircles and threaded engages each shaft 130 such that rotation of each shaft 130 causes each corresponding collar 134 to advance up or down the length of shaft 130, depending on the direction of rotation, in a worm drive configuration.
  • a strut 136 extends between floor 120 and each collar 134 so as to pass through a corresponding slot 68.
  • each shaft 130 facilitates uniform raising and lowering of floor 112 relative to side wall 24.
  • the size of chamber 60 bounded by side wall 24 and floor 60 is selectively adjusted, i.e., the size of chamber 60 gets smaller as floor 112 rises.
  • the means for selectively raising and lowering floor 112 can comprises a variety of modified and alternative configurations.
  • a single driver 132 can be used which is connected by drive lines 140 (shown in Figure 2) to each separate threaded shaft 130.
  • shaft 130 and collars 134 can be replaced with one or more conventional chain drives, belt drives, gear drives, hydraulic lifts, pneumatic lifts, jacks, cranks, winches, pulley systems and/or combinations thereof and the like for selectively raising struts 136 from the exterior of side wall 24.
  • the above discussed various lifts and jacks can be placed directly below floor 112 for selectively raising and lowering floor 112.
  • struts 136 and slots 68 are not required but may be used for stabilizing.
  • means are provided for selectively covering and uncovering portions of slots 68 within chamber 60.
  • a cover be disposed over that portion of slots 68 that is exposed above floor 110 so that the bag or liner does not bulge out of or catch on slots 68 and potentially fail.
  • one example of such means comprises a slot cover assembly 149 that includes an elongated flexible slot cover 150 having a first end 152 and an opposing second end 154.
  • Slot cover 150 has a width slightly larger than slot 68 (as seen in Figure 2) and a thickness which is typically in a range between about 2 mm to about 10 mm. Other desired thicknesses can also be used.
  • First end 152 of slot cover 150 is positioned against or adjacent to interior surface 26 of side wall 24 at or adjacent to lip 124 of floor 110. In one embodiment, at least a portion of first end 152 of slot cover 150 is disposed between lip 124 and side wall 24. First end 152 of slot cover 150 is held in position by a bracket 156 mounted on strut 136. Alternatively, slot cover 150 can be mounted directly to floor 110 or strut 136. From first end 152, slot cover 150 freely travels upward so as to movably and substantially cover that portion of slot 68 above floor 110. A rounded support 158 is mounted on top plate 70 of body portion 23. Slot cover 150 passes over rounded support 158 and travels down along the exterior of side wall 24 to second end 154.
  • Slot cover assembly 149 also includes a tensioning spring 158 and a line 160.
  • tensioning spring 158 is connected to second end 154 of slot cover 150.
  • a first end 162 of line 160 is connected to the opposing end of tensioning spring 158.
  • Line 160 extends down through a support loop 164 mounted on base plate 72 of body portion 23.
  • a second end 166 of line 160 then connects back to strut 136 such as by bolting, welding, bracket, or the like. Since slot cover assembly 149 forms a continuous loop with opposing ends connecting to strut 136, raising or lowering of floor 110 causes slot cover 150 to move along and continuously cover slot 68 above lip 124 of floor 110. This configuration, however, also allows slot 68 below lip 124 of floor 110 to be open so as to allow the free travel of strut 136 therein.
  • Line 160 of slot cover assembly 149 can be wire, cable, rope or the like. In an alternative embodiment, line 160 can be replaced with the same material as slot cover 150. Line 160 is simply used so as to be less obstructive. In yet other embodiments of the means, a spring tensioned coil, electrical winch, or the like can be disposed on the top or outside of side wall 23 so as to selectively gather and release slot cover 150 as floor 110 is selectively raised and lowered.
  • a mixing shaft 208 extending through central port hole 117 of floor 110 ( Figure 2) is a mixing shaft 208.
  • a mixer is mounted on the first end of mixing shaft 208 within chamber 60.
  • means are provided for selectively raising and lowering mixing shaft 208.
  • a frame 168 is mounted to and extends below floor 110.
  • a hydraulic piston 170 which operates an actuation rod 172.
  • a coupler 176 removably connects actuation rod 172 to mixing shaft 208.
  • Flexible hydraulic hoses 174 provide hydraulic fluid to hydraulic piston 170 for raising and lowering actuation rod 172 and thus mixing shaft 208.
  • hydraulic piston 170 being mounted to floor 110 by way of frame 168, hydraulic piston 170 raises and lowers with floor 110.
  • Hydraulic piston 170 can be mounted on platform 12 or a ground surface. This embodiment is more practical where floor 110 is fixed. Furthermore, hydraulic piston 170 can be replaced with a number of other forms of drivers such as a pneumatic piston, rotating crank, various forms of belt drivers, chain drivers, or gear drivers, or other well known mechanisms that enable repeated raising and lowering of a shaft. It is also appreciated that such drivers can be directly connected to mixing shaft 208 or can be connected thereto through actuation rod 172.
  • tank assembly 20 need not be adjustable nor does tank assembly 20 need to be able to heat or cool the solution disposed therein.
  • tank assembly 178 comprise a substantially frustaconical floor 180 having a plurality of support legs 182 downwardly extending therefrom. Rigidly connected to and upwardly extending from the perimeter of floor 180 is an annular side wall 184. Floor 180 and side wall 184 bound a chamber 183.
  • Floor 180 comprises a central base floor 185 having port holes 116 and central port hole 117 extending therethrough.
  • Base floor 185 has a hexagonal configuration that terminates at a plurality of perimeter edges 186.
  • a trapezoidal shaped floor panel 187 upwardly extends at an angle from each perimeter edge 186 of base floor 185.
  • Each of floor panels 187 are secured, such as by welding, bolting, or the like, to the adjacent floor panels 187.
  • the resulting floor 185 thus has a substantially frustaconical configuration with an interior surface, an exterior surface, and a perimeter edge each having a substantially hexagonal transverse cross section.
  • Side wall 184 comprises a plurality of side panels 188 each having a substantially rectangular configuration. Each side panel 188 is rigidly connected to and upwardly extends from an outer perimeter edge of a corresponding floor panel 187. Again, adjacent side panels 188 are connected to each other and to floor panels 187 such as by welding, bolting, or the like. Side wall 184 thus has an interior surface and an exterior surface each having a substantially hexagonal transverse cross section along the length of side wall 184.
  • floor 180 and side wall 184 of tank assembly 178 are made of solid sheets of metal or other material and thus do not bound fluid channels 44 nor do they have slots 68 extending therethrough. Furthermore, side wall 184 does not include a door or window. Finally, floor 180 is rigidly connected to side wall 184 and thus does not raise or lower relative to side wall 184.
  • the side wall and floor can be any desired configuration such as elliptical, polygonal, irregular, or any other desired configuration.
  • the floor typically has a configuration complementary to the side wall.
  • tank assemblies 20 and 178 can be mixed and matched so as to produce a variety of tank assembly configurations having different properties.
  • a tank assembly can be made to heat or cool a solution but have a fixed floor that does not raise or lower.
  • tank assemblies can be made in any number of different sizes.
  • tank assemblies can be made with a chamber having a volume of 20 liters, 250 liters, 500 liters, 750 liters, 1,000 liters, 1,500 liters, 3,000 liters, 5,000 liters, 10,000 liters or other sizes.
  • fluid preparation system 10 can comprise two or more tank assemblies of the same or different size, shape, and/or properties that are mounted on or off of platform 12.
  • mixing assembly 200 comprises a mixing bag 202, a mixer 204 configured to be disposed within mixing bag 202, and an expandable tubular seal 206 configured to provide a fluid sealed connection between mixing bag 202 and mixer 204.
  • mixing shaft 208 can either be part of or separate from mixing assembly 200.
  • mixing bag 202 comprises an elongated, bag-like body 203 having an interior surface 210 and an exterior surface 212. Interior surface 210 bounds a compartment 220. More specifically, body 203 comprises a side wall 213 that, when body 203 is inflated, has a substantially circular or rounded polygonal transverse cross section that extends between an upper end 214 and an opposing lower end 216. Upper end 214 terminates at a top end wall 215 while lower end 216 terminates at a bottom end wall 217.
  • Body 203 is comprised of a flexible, water impermeable material such as polyethylene, polyurethane or other polymeric sheets having a thickness in a range between about 0.1 mm to about 5 mm with about 0.2 mm to about 2 mm being more common. Other thicknesses can also be used.
  • the material is approved for direct contact with living cells and is capable of maintaining a solution sterile. In such an embodiment, the material should also be sterilizable such as by ionizing radiation. Examples of materials that can be used are disclosed in United States Patent No. 6,083,587 which issued on July 4, 2000 and United States Patent Application Serial No. 10/044,636, filed October 19, 2001.
  • Body 203 can be comprised of a single ply material or can comprise two or more layers which are either sealed together or separated to form a double wall container.
  • body 203 comprises a two dimensional bag wherein two sheets of material are placed in overlapping relation and the two sheets are bounded together at their peripheries to form internal compartment 220.
  • body 203 comprises a three dimensional bag which not only has an annular side wall 213 but also a two dimensional top end wall 215 and a two dimensional bottom end wall 217.
  • Three dimensional body 203 comprises a plurality, i.e., typically three or more, discrete panels 228 as shown in Figure 9.
  • Each panel 228 is substantially identical and comprises a portion of the side wall 213a, top end wall 215a, and bottom end wall 217a.
  • Corresponding perimeter edges of each panel 228 are seamed together to form seams 230 as shown in Figure 8.
  • Seams 230 are formed using methods known in the art such as heat energies, RF energies, sonics, or other sealing energies.
  • panels 228 can be formed in a variety of different patterns. Further disclosure with regard to one method of manufacturing three-dimensional bags is disclosed in United States Patent Application Serial No. 09/813,351, filed on March 19, 2001.
  • mixing bag 202 can be manufactured to have virtually any desired size, shape, and configuration.
  • mixing bag 202 can be formed having compartment 220 sized to hold 20 liters, 250 liters, 500 liters, 750 liters, 1,000 liters, 1,500 liters, 3,000 liters, 5,000 liters, 10,000 liters, or other desired amounts.
  • Body 203 is often made of four or six panels 228 depending on the intended volume of mixing bag 202.
  • Mixing bag 202 simply conforms to the configuration of tank assembly 20 as it is filled with solution.
  • mixing bag 202 can be specifically configured to be complementary to the interior surface of tank assembly 20 bounding chamber 60.
  • mixing bag 202 can be made of six panels 228 so as to have a substantially hexagonal transverse cross section.
  • mixing bag 202 further comprises a feeding port 222, a barbed fluid port 224, and an barbed pressure port 226 each mounted on top end wall 215 of body 203 so as to outwardly project therefrom.
  • An annular flange 223 encircles and outwardly projects from the free end of feeding port 222.
  • a channel 227 extends through each of ports 222, 224, and 226 so as to provide fluid communication between compartment 220 and the exterior.
  • a flexible extension sleeve 239 is received over feeding port 222 and is connected thereto by a tie 241.
  • a tubular coupling 243 is mounted at the opposing end of sleeve 239 and is also secured thereto by a tie 241.
  • a removable clamp 245 is closed across extension sleeve 239 so as to close off fluid communication between compartment 220 and the exterior.
  • Extension tubes 249 and 251 are coupled to ports 224 and 226, respectively.
  • a tie 241 can also be used to secure each of these connections.
  • a removable clamp 244 is also closed across each tube 249 and 251 so as to seal off fluid communication between compartment 220 and the exterior.
  • FIG. 10B Depicted in Figure 10B is an alternative embodiment wherein like elements are identified by like reference characters.
  • extension sleeve 239 and clamp 244 have been replaced with a cover plate 232.
  • Cover plate 232 is disposed within compartment 220 and is rotatably mounted to or adjacent to feeding port 222 by way of a knob 234. Selective rotation of a free end of knob 234 projecting outside of bag 202 facilitates rotation of cover plate 232 within compartment 220.
  • Cover plate 232 can be rotated to selectively cover or expose channel 227 extending through feeding port 232.
  • a barbed inflation port 236, a barbed outlet port 238, and a barbed inlet port 240 mounted on bottom end wall 217 of body 203 so as to outwardly project therefrom is a barbed inflation port 236, a barbed outlet port 238, and a barbed inlet port 240.
  • a barbed mounting port 242 is centrally disposed on bottom end wall 217 and projects into compartment 220.
  • a channel 227 also extends through each of ports 236, 238, 240, and 242 so as to provide fluid communication between compartment 220 and the exterior.
  • extension tubes with clamps thereon can be mounted on ports 236, 238 and 240, such as discussed with ports 224 and 226, so as to close communication with chamber 220 prior to use of mixing bag 202.
  • mixing bag 202 has a flexible, bag-like configuration, in alternative embodiments it is appreciated that mixing bag 202 can comprise any form of collapsible container or rigid container.
  • mixer 204 is disposed within compartment 220 of mixing bag 202.
  • mixer 204 comprises a base 205 having flaps 264 mounted thereagainst. More specifically, base 205 comprises a central hub 246 having an exterior surface 247 extending between a first end 248 and an opposing second end 250. Second end 250 terminates at an end face having a threaded recess 252 formed thereon. Barbs 254 encircle and radially outwardly project from hub 246 at second end 250.
  • base 205 further includes a plurality of spaced apart struts 256 that radially outwardly project from the exterior of hub 246 at first end 248 to an annular rim 258.
  • a retention screen 260 supported on or by struts 256, extends between hub 246 and rim 258.
  • Retention screen 260 bounds a plurality of fluid openings 259 formed between hub 246 and rim 258.
  • retention screen 260 is comprised of wire or other line that is strung between struts 256.
  • retention screen 260 can comprise various forms of mesh, matting, conventional screen, plates having slots, holes, or other types of openings extending therethrough, or other similar types of structures that can support flaps 264, as discussed below, but which enable fluid to pass therethrough.
  • a plurality of spaced apart spokes 262 also extend between hub 246 and rim 258.
  • Each spoke 262 is aligned with a corresponding strut 256 on a side thereof closer to second end 250 of hub 246.
  • a flexible wedge shaped flap 264 Positioned between each spoke 262 and retention screen 260 is a flexible wedge shaped flap 264.
  • Each flap 264 has a pointed lead end 266 disposed against or adjacent to hub 246 and a flared tail end 268 disposed adjacent to rim 258.
  • Each flap 264 also comprises opposing diverging sides 270 and 272 that extend from lead end 266 to tail end 268.
  • Each flap 264 is positioned so that a corresponding spoke 262 extends between lead end 266 and tail end 268 centrally between sides 270 and 272. Flaps 264 are configured to completely or at least substantially cover fluid openings 259 formed between hub 246 and rim 258 when flaps 264 rest against retention screen 260.
  • flaps 264 are comprised of a sheet of silicone having a thickness in a range between about 1 mm to about 10 mm.
  • Other flexible sheets of material, such as polyethylene or polyurethane, having a variety of different thicknesses can also be used.
  • mixer 204 is supported within compartment 220 of mixing bag 202 by mixing shaft 208.
  • mixing shaft 208 has a threaded first end 278 and an opposing second end 280.
  • First end 278 of mixing shaft 208 slidably passes through channel 227 of mounting port 242 and then screws into threaded recess 252 of hub 246.
  • Second end 280 of mixing shaft 208 is disposed outside of mixing bag 202.
  • means are provided for raising and lowering mixer 204 within compartment 220 of mixing bag 202 so as to mix the solution within compartment 220.
  • One embodiment of such means comprises mixing shaft 208 as discussed above.
  • Alternative embodiments of such means include alternative mixing shafts as disclosed herein.
  • the present invention also includes means for enabling mixing shaft 208 to raise and lower mixer 204 within compartment 220 of bag 202 while preventing leaking of liquid from compartment 220 of mixing bag 202.
  • tubular seal 206 has a first end 284, an opposing second end 286, and an expandable bellow section 288 extending therebetween.
  • First end 284 of seal 206 encircles second end 250 of hub 246.
  • a surrounding tie 290 is used to secure the connection in a liquid tight fashion.
  • second end 286 of seal 206 encircles mounting port 242.
  • a tie 292 is also used to secure this connection in a liquid tight fashion.
  • mixing shaft 208 can freely slide within channel 227 of mounting port 242 such that by selectively raising and lowering mixing shaft 208 from outside of mixing bag 202, mixer 204 is correspondingly raised and lowered within compartment 202 relative to mixing bag 202.
  • Bellow section 288 of seal 206 selectively expands and contracts as mixing shaft 208 is raised and lowered relative to mixing bag 202, thereby maintaining the sealed communication between mixer 204 and mounting port 242.
  • mixing of a solution within compartment 220 of mixing bag 202 is accomplished by repeatedly raising and lowering mixer 204 within compartment 220.
  • fluid within compartment 220 passes through retention screen 260 and pushes against flaps 264 causing sides 270 and 272 of flaps 264 on opposing sides of spokes 262 to downwardly flex, thereby allowing mixer 204 to travel through the fluid without substantial disturbance.
  • the fluid pushes flaps 264 against retention screen 260 so as to preclude the passage of the fluid through fluid openings 259 of mixer 204.
  • mixer 204 causes the fluid within compartment 220 to flow down, out, up, and around as shown by arrow 294 in Figure 11.
  • Mixing parameters can be varied based on the amount and type of solution being prepared. For example, the stroke length, i.e., the vertical distance that mixer 204 travels, and the frequency, i.e., the number of times mixer 204 travels the stroke length per unit of time, and the acceleration and deceleration, i.e., the rate at which mixer 204 starts and stops, can each be selectively regulated.
  • the stroke length and frequency can not only be changed between different batches but can also be changed at different times during the mixing of a single batch.
  • one or more of the variables can be continually changed during mixing.
  • the parameters are set so as to enable rapid and thorough mixing of the components and yet be gentle enough to maintain suspensions for extended period of time without inducing excess foaming.
  • the stroke length is in a range between about 0.1 cm to about 30 cm with about 5 cm to about 20 cm being more common while the frequency is in a range between about 0.1 Hz to about 4 Hz with about 0.5 Hz to about 2 Hz being more common.
  • Other parameter settings can also be used based on the configuration of the mixer and the amount and type of solution being prepared.
  • the means for mechanically mixing a liquid solution with compartment 220 of mixing bag 202 can comprise a variety of modifications or alternative embodiments of mixer 204.
  • mixer 204 can be flipped so that swirling is produced in an opposite direction.
  • flaps 264 are simply functioning as a one-way valve.
  • rigid flaps can be hingedly mounted on mixer 204.
  • pneumatic, hydraulic, or electrical switches can be coupled with mixer 204 which selectively open and close one-way valves on mixer 204.
  • the one-way valves may simply comprise plates which selectively slide to open or close one or more holes extending through mixer 204.
  • mixer 204 can be formed without one-way valves.
  • mixer 204 can comprise a rigid or flexible plate with no openings.
  • the plate swirls or otherwise mixes the solution as the plate moves in both directions.
  • the plate can have fixed holes or slots therein to direct movement of the fluid.
  • mixer 204 can simply comprise a plurality of fixed fins or vanes which can be configured to either rotate and/or move up and down within mixing bag 202 for mixing the solution.
  • two or more mixers 204 can be mounted on mixing shaft 208.
  • the mixers 204 can be longitudinally spaced apart along shaft 208.
  • mixers can be used that do not operate by being raised and lowered.
  • shaft driven blades and magnetically operated stir bars that rotate within mixing bag 202 can be used.
  • FIG 14A Depicted in Figure 14A is one alternative embodiment of a mixer 310.
  • Mixer 310 comprises a base 312 having flaps 314 connected thereto.
  • Base 312 has a substantially circular plate-like configuration having a top surface 316 and an opposing bottom surface 318.
  • base 312 includes an integrally formed central hub 322 and integrally formed struts 324 that radially outwardly project from hub 322 to an outer edge 326.
  • Struts 324 divide base 312 into a plurality of wedge shaped sections 328. Formed within each section 328 so as to extend between top surface 316 and bottom surface 318 are a plurality of fluid openings 330.
  • Base 312 is typically made of a polymeric material, such as high density polyurethane or polyethylene, but can also be made of metal, composite, or other desired materials.
  • Base 312 can be molded having fluid openings 330 formed thereon. Alternatively, base 312 and/or fluid openings 330 can be cut.
  • base 312 has a thickness between surfaces 316 and 318 in a range between about 1 cm to about 6 cm with about 2 cm to about 4 cm being more common. Other dimensions can also be used depending on size and use parameters.
  • flaps 314 are mounted on bottom surface 318 of base 312. Flaps 314 have substantially the same configuration as flaps 264.
  • flaps 314 are comprised of polyethylene sheets having a thickness in a range between about 0.1 mm to about 5 mm with about 0.2 mm to about 2 mm being more common. Again, other materials and thicknesses can be used.
  • flaps 314 are directly welded to base 312. That is, each flap 314 is welded, such as by heat, sonic, chemical welding or the like, along a central axis 332 to a corresponding strut 324.
  • Each flap 314 is configured to overlay half of each adjacent section 328 with the side edges of each flap 314 being free to flex. Flaps 314 can thus operate in the same fashion as previously discussed with regard to flaps 264.
  • a blind hole 336 is formed on bottom surface 318 of hub 322 of base 312.
  • Blind hole 336 has a frustaconical configuration that tapers outwardly toward top surface 316. The taper is typically in a range between 1° to about 10° although other angles can also be used.
  • a tubular connector 340 has a first end disposed on bottom surface 318 so as to encircle blind hole 336 and has a barbed annular second end downwardly projecting therefrom. Tubular connector 340 can be integrally formed with or connected to base 312.
  • a tubular port 344 has a flanged first end 346 that is welded or otherwise secured to mixing bag 202 and has a barbed second end 348 that outwardly projects from mixing bag 202.
  • a tubular seal 350 has a first end 352 and an opposing second end 354. First end 352 is received over the second end of tubular connector 340 so as to form a sealed connection therewith. Second end 354 of seal 350 is passed through tubular port 344 and then turned inside-out so as to enclose barbed second end 348 of tubular port 344 and form a sealed connection therewith.
  • Tubular seal 350 is typically made of a polymeric material, such as polyethylene, having a thickness in a range between about 0.5 mm to about 10 mm with about 0.75 mm to about 3 mm being more common. Other flexible materials and thicknesses can also be used.
  • a mixing shaft 358 is shown removably connected to mixer 310.
  • Mixing shaft 358 has a first end 360 and an opposing second end 362.
  • a tubular collet 363 projects from first end 360 of shaft 358.
  • Collet 363 has an exterior surface 364 with threads formed thereon and an interior surface 365 that bound a socket 366.
  • a plurality of radially spaced apart slot 376 extend between surfaces 364 and 365 along the length thereof.
  • a frustaconical wedge 368 Disposed within socket 336 is a frustaconical wedge 368 having a first end 369 and an opposing second end 370.
  • collet 363 Prior to coupling mixing shaft 358 to mixer 310, collet 363 has a substantially cylindrical configuration with socket 366 being sized only to receive the smaller second end 370 of wedge 368.
  • first end 360 of mixing shaft 358 having wedge 368 partially received within socket 366 is passed through tubular seal 350 and into blind hole 336 of base 312.
  • first end 369 of wedge 368 biases against the bottom of blind hole 336.
  • wedge 368 is pressed further into socket 366 causing collet 363 to radially outwardly expand so that the threaded exterior surface 364 of collet 363 engages against the interior surface of blind hole 336.
  • mixing shaft 358 By further pressing wedge 368 within collet 363, first end 360 of mixing shaft 358 becomes securely connected to base 312. However, once use of mixing bag 202 is completed, mixing shaft 358 can be rotated so that collet 363 unscrews from base 312, thereby enabling reuse of mixing shaft 358.
  • mixing shaft 358 can be connected to mixer 310 using conventional connections, such as threaded engagement, or can be permanently secured to mixer 310.
  • mixing shaft 358 can be used for selectively raising and lower mixer 310 for mixing the solution within compartment 202.
  • tubular seal 350 in contrast to expansion and contraction of bellow section 288 of tubular seal 206 ( Figure 9), tubular seal 350, as shown in Figures 14A and 14B progressively turns inside-out and then turns back rightside-in as shaft 358 is raised and lowered.
  • Tubular seal 350 is thus another example of a means for enabling a mixing shaft to raise and lower a mixer within compartment 220 of bag 202 while preventing leaking of liquid from compartment 220 of mixing bag 202.
  • FIG. 18A Depicted in Figure 18A is another alternative embodiment of a mixer 374 having a mixing shaft 376 attached thereto.
  • Mixer 374 is substantially identical to mixer 310 except that base 378 of mixer 374 does not include blind hole 336 or tubular connector 340. Rather, base 378 has a through hole 380 formed through hub 322.
  • a bolt 381 is disposed on top surface 316 of base 378 such that a threaded shaft 382 thereof is received within through hole 380.
  • Mixing shaft 376 has a first end 383 and an opposing second end 384.
  • a threaded socket is recessed within first end 383 of mixing shaft 376.
  • mixing shaft 376 First end 383 of mixing shaft 376 is positioned within through hole 380 and threadedly engaged with bolt 381.
  • An annular flange 385 outwardly projects from mixing shaft 376 and biases against bottom surface of base 378, thereby preventing mixing shaft 376 from passing through base 378.
  • mixing shaft 376 is designed to be permanently attached to mixer 374. Again, mixing shaft 376 can be connected to mixer 374 using any conventional attachment mechanisms such as welding, integrally forming, screwing, clipping, and the like.
  • Diaphragm 388 Mounted on or toward second end 384 of mixing shaft 376 is a flexible diaphragm 388.
  • diaphragm 388 is molded from polyurethane. Other flexible materials can also be used.
  • Diaphragm 388 has a hollow semispherical configuration that includes an outer annular base 389 with an annular flange 390 radially outwardly projecting therefrom. Flange 390 is sealed, such as by welding or other conventional techniques, to mixing bag 202 so that diaphragm 388 communicates with compartment 220 of mixing bag 202.
  • Diaphragm 388 also includes a central portion 391 having a tubular sleeve 392 projecting therefrom.
  • a plurality of ribs 393 encircle and radially outwardly project on mixing shaft 376 at or toward second end 384 thereof.
  • Sleeve 392 of diaphragm 388 is passed over ribs 393 so that a sealed connection is formed between mixing shaft 376 and diaphragm 388.
  • a tie 394 can be secured around sleeve 392 to ensure the sealed connection.
  • diaphragm 388 is another example of the means for enabling a mixing shaft to raise and lower a mixer within compartment 220 of mixing bag 202 while preventing leaking of liquid from compartment 220 of mixing bag 202.
  • diaphragm 388 freely flexes in and out so as to allow free movement of mixing shaft 376.
  • seals 206 and 350 can be coupled in a sealed connection directly to mixing shafts 208 and 358, respectively, as opposed to the corresponding mixers.
  • mixing assembly 200 is manufactured and sold as a disposable unit. During manufacture, a portion of panels 228 are seamed together as previously discussed. Prior to complete sealing of panels 228, however, mixer 204 is positioned within compartment 220. Seal 206 is then coupled between mixer 204 and mounting port 242 as previously discussed. Once seal 206 is appropriately attached, the remainder of panels 228 are seamed together to complete the production.
  • mixing bag 202 is then collapsed in an accordion fashion and bounded by a harness 296.
  • mixing assembly 200 can be sterilized such as by ionizing radiation or other conventional methods. Depending on the desired solution and the method of manufacture, however, it may not be necessary to sterilize mixing assembly 200.
  • Mixing shaft 208 can be mounted to mixer 204 either before mixer 204 is disposed within compartment 220 of mixing bag 202 or at any time after mixer 204 is sealed within compartment 220. As depicted in Figure 11, this latter attachment is accomplished by simply passing first end 278 of mixing shaft 208 from exterior of mixing bag 202 up through mixing port 242 and tubular seal 206 and then screwing mixing shaft 208 into mixer 204. In this embodiment, mixing shaft 208 can either be disposed of after use or removed and reused.
  • mixing shaft 208 can be connected to mixer 204 in any conventional manner such as by adhesion, welding, press fit, or can be integrally formed as a portion of hub 246. Where the first end of seal 206 is coupled with mixing shaft 208 rather then mixer 204, mixing shaft 208 is coupled with mixer 204 prior to being sealed within compartment 220. The second end of mixing shaft 208 is then passed down through seal 206 to the exterior of mixing bag 202.
  • Mixers 310 and 374 are also position within compartment 220 of mixing bag 202 prior to complete seaming of panels 228. Likewise, mixing shafts 358 and 376 can also be coupled with corresponding mixers either before or after the mixers are sealed within compartment 220.
  • mixing bag 202 can be manufactured to hold any desired volume of fluid.
  • a manufacturer initially determines how much solution is desired to be manufactured. Based on that determination, a mixing assembly 200 corresponding to the desired volume is selected. Based on the size of the selected mixing assembly 200, floor 110 of tank assembly 20 is either raised or lowered so that when mixing bag 202 is completely inflated or filled within chamber 60 of tank assembly 20, top end wall 215 of mixing bag 202 is positioned within upper end 30 of tank assembly 20.
  • fluid preparation system 10 further comprises a lift 400 mounted on platform 12.
  • Lift 400 comprises a tower 402 having an arm 404 mounted thereon.
  • Tower 402 has a longitudinal axis 406 and is configured to rotate about such axis.
  • arm 404 is configured to selectively raise and lower along the length of tower 402.
  • Mounted on arm 404 is a winch 408 operable with a cable 410.
  • Mounted at the end of cable 410 is a connecter 412.
  • mixing assembly 200 To position mixing assembly 200 within chamber 60, arm 404 and/or cable 408 is lowered so that connecter 412 is attached to harness 296 on mixing assembly 200. Lift 400 is then used to guide mixing assembly 200 into chamber 60 through doorway 57. Mixing assembly 200 is lowered within chamber 60 so that as bottom end wall 217 of mixing bag 202 comes to rest on base floor 112 of floor 110, ports 236, 238, and 240 are aligned with port holes 116. Likewise, mixing shaft 208 is aligned with and passed through central port hole 117 so as to couple with actuation rod 172 by coupler 176 as previously discussed. Once mixing assembly 200 is seated within chamber 60, harness 296 is removed and door 25 is closed and locked.
  • a delivery tube 420 is coupled with outlet port 238.
  • Delivery tube 420 passes through or couples with a first value 422, a pump 424, a second valve 426, and then couples with filtration system 500 which will be discussed below in great detail.
  • Coupled with first valve 422 is a sample tube 428.
  • a return tube 430 extends between second valve 426 and inlet port 240.
  • tube as used in the specification and appended claims is intended to include conventional flexible hose and tubing which is relatively inexpensive and can be easily replaced, if desired, between the manufacture of different batches or types of solution.
  • first valve 422 can comprise a tee joint coupled with two sections of delivery tube 420 and sample tube 428 acting in combination with an external clamp, such as a conventional hose clamp, which can be manually or otherwise selectively closed around either delivery tube 420 or sample tube 428.
  • an external clamp such as a conventional hose clamp
  • pump 424 can comprises a peristaltic pump wherein deliver tube 420 passes therethrough without the solution ever contacting the pump. Conventional pumps can also be used, however, where the solution directly contacts the pump.
  • Air tube 432 is coupled with an air source.
  • the air source comprises a compressor or some form of tank wherein compressed air is already stored.
  • a portion of platform 12 is hollow and forms a large storage tank for compressed air.
  • One benefit of using a large storage tank for holding compressed air is that it enables quick inflation of mixing bag 202.
  • By using platform 12 as the storage tank, the use of space is optimized.
  • Air tube 432 is coupled with platform 12 by way of a valve 434.
  • air or some other form of gas is fed through tube 432 into compartment 220 so as to completely or substantially inflate mixing bag 202 within chamber 60.
  • clamps 244 are used in association with ports 222, 224, and 226 so as to seal the ports, thereby enabling inflation of mixing bag 202.
  • various forms of caps, seals or other forms of stops can be used to temporarily seal the ports.
  • a support rack 436 is mounted to or positioned on upper end 30 of side wall 24 of tank assembly 20 so as to extend at least partially across side wall 24.
  • a removable clamp 438 is used to secure feeding port 222 ( Figure 10A) to support rack 436.
  • a fluid line 440 is coupled with fluid port 224 either directly or through extension tube 249.
  • Fluid line 440 is configured for selectively delivering fluid, such as various forms of water, into mixing bag 202.
  • a pressure regulator 442 is coupled with pressure port 226, such as through extension tube 251, so as to selectively control the air pressure within mixing bag 202 within a desired range.
  • pressure regulator 442 operates with an air inlet line 444, which is coupled with a pump or pressurized gas source, for delivering air or other gases into mixing bag 202 and an air outlet line 446 for allowing air to escape from mixing bag 202.
  • a filter 447 is coupled with outlet line 446 to prevent particulate feed component within mixing bag 202 from escaping with the exiting air.
  • mixing bag 202 is typically sized so as to have a volume corresponding to the volume of the chamber of tank assembly.
  • such systems can efficiently mix fluid volumes down to 1/5 the volume of the mixing bag.
  • a tank assembly 178 having a chamber with a volume of 100 liters would typically receive a mixing bag having a compartment with a volume of 100 liters.
  • such an arrangement could be used to efficiently mix a volume of solution ranging from about 20 liters to about 100 liters.
  • Mixing bag 202 is inserted into the chamber of tank assembly 178 by being lowered through the top opening thereof. This can be accomplished either manually or through the use of lift 400. If desired, feeding port 222 ( Figure 10A) can be secured to support rack 436 ( Figure 20) mounted on top of tank assembly 178. For small mixing bags, however, the mixing bag need not be supported within the tank assembly.
  • mixing bag 202 is in part helpful for the proper positioning of mixing bag 202 within the tank assembly, for accessing and connecting various structures to the top of mixing bag 202, and, as will be discussed below in greater detail, for creating a positive gas pressure that helps the dry material component to feed into mixing bag 202. It is not necessary, however, especially for small mixing bags, to inflate the mixing bag. Furthermore, for small mixing bags, air tube 432 ( Figure 1) can be eliminated and the mixing bag inflated solely through air inlet line 444 ( Figure 20).
  • Feed bag 450 comprises a body 452 that extends from an upper end 451 to a lower end 453.
  • Body 452 has an interior surface 448 bounding a compartment 449.
  • Compartment 449 is at least partially filled with a feed component which is typically in the form of a powder, grain, or other substantially dry material that is flowable.
  • the feed component can also be in a liquid form.
  • the feed component can be any desired material, in one embodiment the feed component comprises culture media, buffers, or reagents in a powder form.
  • Tubular spout 454 bounds an outlet 455 that is selectively and removably coupled with tubular coupling 243. (Tubular coupling 243 was previously discussed with regard to Figure 10A.) This connection enables the feed component to pass from feed bag 450 to mixing bag 202 and can be secured through the use of a tie, band, clamp or the like. A removable clamp 456 is clamped across spout 454 to prevent unwanted passage of the feed component through spout 454.
  • Feed bag 450 further comprises a handle 455 that is positioned at upper end 451 of body 452 for supporting feed bag 450.
  • ports 457 and 459 comprise conventional barbed ports outwardly projection from body 452.
  • Other conventional types of ports can also be used.
  • Coupled with ports 457 and 459 is a fluid tube 458 and a vent tube 462, respectively.
  • a clamp 461 such as a conventional hose clamp, is positioned on each of tubes 458 and 462.
  • Fluid tube 458 is selectively and removably coupled with a delivery line 460 which communicates with a fluid source for delivering a rinsing fluid, such as water, into compartment 449.
  • Vent tube 462 is coupled with a filter 464.
  • Filter 464 can be mounted directly on vent port 459 or at any point along vent tube 462. Filter 464 allows air and/or other gases to enter and/or escape from compartment 449 while preventing the escape of the feed component therethrough.
  • feed bag 450 can be formed with a single port which can be used for either or both of the above functions.
  • Body 452 of feed bag 450 can be made of the same materials, such as polyethylene, and layers as previously discussed with regard to body 203 of mixing bag 202. Furthermore, body 452 and thus feed bag 450 can be any desired shape or configuration and can be either a two or three dimensional bag. It is also appreciated that feed bag 450 can be any form of collapsible container or a rigid reusable container.
  • lift 400 further includes an L-shape support 466 having a connector 468 mounted on the end thereof.
  • Support 466 is selectively rotatable about the longitudinal axis of arm 404 to facilitate connecting connector 468 to handle 455 of feed bag 450.
  • Feed bag 450 is secured to connector 468 so as to suspend therefrom.
  • Support 466 can also be configured to weigh feed bag 450 when connected thereto.
  • a regulator 470 is mounted to arm 404 for selectively dispensing the feed component from feed bag 450.
  • regulator 470 comprises a base frame 472 having a central channel 474 formed thereon.
  • Tubular spout 454 of feed bag 450 is positioned so as to pass through channel 474.
  • a control plate 476 is slidably mounted to base frame 472 and is controlled by a push rod 475 to selectively slide within channel 474.
  • Mounted on control plate 476 is a vibrator 478.
  • control plate 476 operable under electrical control of push rod 475, is advanced within channel 474 so as to compress tubular spout 454 against base frame 472, thereby preventing the unwanted passage of the feed component therethrough.
  • control plate 476 For controlled dispensing of the feed component, control plate 476 is retracted an incremental amount, thereby allowing the feed component to flow through the now only partially constricted tubular spout 454.
  • vibrator 478 can be activated which vibrates the feed component and assists it in passing through tubular spout 454, coupling 243, extension sleeve 239 and into compartment 220.
  • Dispensing of the feed component can be determined through the change of weight of feed bag 450 as measured by support 466. It is appreciated that regulator 470 may or may not be required when all of the contents of feed bag 450 is to be dispensed within mixing bag 202.
  • Compartment 220 of mixing bag 202 is now at least partially filled with a liquid component entering through fluid line 440 and fluid port 224.
  • mixing bag 202 is initially filled with the liquid component to an amount between about 50% to 80% by volume.
  • the air within compartment 220 bleeds out through pressure port 226 so that the pressure range is maintained within compartment 220.
  • feed bag 450 is coupled with mixing bag 202 as discussed above.
  • mixing bag 202 is filled with the liquid component to the initial capacity, clamps 245 and 456 are removed such that the feed component is free to feed into compartment 202 from feed bag 450.
  • the feed component can be fed as a dump or regulated through the use of regulator 470 as previously discussed. In alternative embodiments, the feed component can be feed into compartment 202 at any time during the process.
  • the free and continuous flow of the powdered feed component from body 452 of feed bag 450 through tubular spout 454 and extension sleeve 239 is improved if feed bag 450 is operated under a positive air pressure.
  • the powdered feed component has improved flow properties if feed bag 450 is at least partially inflated by air flowing from mixing bag 202 up through extension sleeve 239 and tubular spout 454.
  • pressure regulator 442 maintains the air pressure within compartment 220 of mixing bag 202 so that when clamps 245 and 456 are removed, feed bag 450 is subject to a positive air pressure. That is, air or other gases can be added or removed from mixing bag 202 through air inlet line 444 and air outlet line 446, respectively, which are controlled by pressure regulator 442.
  • pressure regulator 442 maintains a positive pressure within compartment 220 in a range between about 0.5 KPa to about 14 KPa with about 3.5 KPa to about 10 KPa being more common. Other pressures can also be used depending on the system parameters.
  • feed bag 452 is empty, clamp 461 on fluid tube 458 is opened and a rinsing fluid, such as water or other compatible liquids for the solution, is fed through line 460 and fluid tube 458 into feed bag 450.
  • a rinsing fluid such as water or other compatible liquids for the solution.
  • the rinsing fluid is used to help flush suspended particles and other residue of the feed component within feed bag 450, coupling 243, and extension sleeve 239 into compartment 220.
  • clamp 461 is closed and line 460 disconnected.
  • clamps 244 and 456 are closed about extension sleeve 239 and spout 454, respectively. In this configuration, feed bag 450 remains inflated through air delivered from mixing bag 202.
  • vent tube 462 To deflate feed bag 450, clamp 463 is opened on vent tube 462. The venting air passes through filter 464 so as to capture any residue feed component. Vent tube 462 is also used to deflate feed bags 450 which are only partially emptied of the feed component. Feed bag 450 is uncoupled from coupling 243 either before or after deflating. If required, a new feed bag 450 can then be connected to coupling 243. It is appreciated that in some embodiments it may be necessary to empty several feed bags 450 into mixing bag 202 for the production of the solution while in other embodiments it may be necessary only to empty a portion of a single feed bag 450.
  • vent tube 462 can remain open during dispensing of the feed component so that air continually passes out therethrough. Furthermore, in embodiments where mixing bag 202 is not under a positive pressure, vent tube 462 can be opened to allow filtered air to freely pass into mixing bag 202 to enhance the free flow of the feed component. Air or other gases can also be forced through vent tube 462 into feed bag 450.
  • FIG 22 Depicted in Figure 22 is an alternative embodiment of a feed bag 562. Like elements between feed bag 562 and feed bag 450 are identified by like reference characters. In contrast to feed bag 450 where spout 454 removably connects with coupling 243, spout 454 of feed bag 562 is welded or otherwise fixed to an outlet port 561. As shown in Figure 23, outlet port 561 has a diamond shaped base 563 having a plurality of ribs 564 extending along the length thereof. A tubular stem 565 is integrally formed with and extends through base 563. Stem 565 bounds an opening 566 extending therethrough and terminates at an outwardly projecting flange 567.
  • Outlet port 561 Base 563 of outlet port 561 is received within outlet 455 of body 452 so that the sides of spout 454 cover ribs 564.
  • a conventional welding technique such as heat or sonic welding, is then used to weld the sides of spout 454 to ribs 564 so as to form a sealed connection therebetween.
  • a clamp 568 is then used to removably and directly connect outlet port 561 of feed bag 562 to feed port 222 of mixing bag 202.
  • Feed bag 562 is also distinguished from feed bag 450 in that a single port 570 is formed at upper end 451.
  • a transition tube 572 extends between port 570 and a three-way valve 574.
  • Fluid tube 458 and vent tube 462, as previously discussed, are each coupled with valve 574. Operating valve 574 thus enables fluid tube 458 and vent tube 462 to selectively communicate with compartment 449 of feed bag 562.
  • a spray nozzle 413 is removably mounted to fluid port 224. As depicted by arrows 415, spray nozzle 413 facilitates a radial outward spraying of the liquid component entering compartment 220 of mixing bag 202 through fluid port 224.
  • the sprayed liquid component helps wash down feed component that may have collected on the side walls of mixing bag 202 and also helps remove particles of the feed component suspended or floating within mixing bag 202.
  • spray nozzle 413 comprises a tubular body 414 having an exterior surface 415 and an interior surface 416 each extending between a first end 417 and an opposing second end 418.
  • a stepped flanged 409 Encircling and radially outwardly projecting from exterior surface 415 at first end 417 is a stepped flanged 409.
  • Interior surface 416 bounds a channel 419 that radially inwardly slopes at second end 418 to an end wall 421.
  • Extending between interior surface 416 and exterior surface 415 so as to encircle at least a portion of second end 418 is a helical slot 411.
  • second end 418 of spray nozzle 413 is passed through fluid port 224 so that stepped flange 409 engages with the leading edge of fluid port 224.
  • second end 418 having helical slot 411 formed thereon is disposed within compartment 220 of mixing bag 202.
  • the fluid component flowing down extension tube 249 enters channel 419 of spray nozzle 413 at first end 417.
  • the fluid component travels down channel 419 and is radially outwardly sprayed through helical slot 411.
  • the sprayed fluid component functions to wash down the feed component as previously discussed.
  • spray nozzle 413 or the end thereof can be replaced with any number of different spray heads such as those used in conventional sprinkler systems.
  • mixer 204 During and/or subsequent to feeding of the components into compartment 220 of mixing bag 202, mixer 204 or one of the alternatives thereto is activated so as to mix the components into a homogeneous solution. Specifically, as previously discussed, mixer 204 is repeatedly raised and lowered within compartment 220 under various operating parameters specific to the volume and type of solution being made.
  • One of the benefits of mixers 204, 310, and 374 is that they are able to efficiently mix both large and relatively small amounts of solution with minimal shearing forces and while minimizing the formation of foam. High shearing forces and the formation of foam can be detrimental to some biological solutions.
  • side wall 24 of tank assembly 20 can be any configuration, such as circular as shown in Figure 2, it has been discovered that improved mixing properties are obtained if the interior configuration of the side wall has a polygonal configuration, such as the hexagonal configuration shown in Figure 7.
  • the polygonal configuration appears to increase turbulent flow which improves mixing.
  • samples can be drawn out and tested through sample tube 428 in communication with delivery tube 420 as depicted in Figure 1.
  • select additives can be added through sample tube 428 which additives then pass through pump 424 and then back into compartment 220 through return tube 430.
  • additives include serum, acids, bases, lipids, buffers, and trace element components.
  • mixing bag 202 remains suspended within chamber 60 as the solution is removed from mixing bag 202.
  • mixing bag 202 begins to radially inwardly collapse from upper end 214 to lower end 216. Accordingly, when all of the solution is removed, mixing bag 202 is almost entirely supported by support rack 436.
  • air or some other gas in continually pumped into compartment 220 through air inlet line 444 so as to maintain a positive pressure within mixing bag 202. Mixing bag 202 thus remains partially supported by the side wall of the tank assembly. Inflating mixing bag 202 also helps in removal of all solution therefrom.
  • mixing bag 202 can be refilled for a new batch.
  • mixing bag 202 is disconnected from the various tubes and mixing shaft 208 is disconnected from actuation rod 172.
  • the entire mixing assembly 200 is then removed from chamber 60 through the use of lift 400 where it is then either disposed of or recycled.
  • a new mixing assembly can then be inserted within chamber 60 for the production of a new batch of solution without the need to sterilize or clean tank assembly 20.
  • fluid channels 44 in side wall 24 of tank assembly 20 are used for controlling the temperature of the solution within mixing bag 202.
  • fluid channels 44 can regulate temperature, they do not actually measure the temperature of the solution.
  • conventional temperature probes can be inserted into the solution through ports on mixing bag 202.
  • a temperature probe 480 having an exterior surface 481 extending between a first end 482 and an opposing second end 483. Outwardly projecting from exterior surface 481 between opposing ends 482 and 483 is a mounting flange 484. First end 482 terminates at a substantially flat end face 485. Projecting from second end 443 is signal wiring 486 for transmitting the signal produced by temperature probe 480.
  • temperature probe 480 is further defined as having a cylindrical housing 488 comprising an encircling peripheral wall 489 and an end wall 490 disposed at first end 482 thereof.
  • Housing 488 is typically comprised of metal, such as stainless steel, and typically has a thickness in a range between about 0.3 mm to about 3 mm. Other materials and thicknesses can also be used.
  • Housing 488 has an interior surface 491 which bounds a cavity 492.
  • thermal sensor 494 Disposed within cavity 492 so as to bias against interior surface 491 of end wall 490 is a thermal sensor 494.
  • thermal sensor 494 comprises a thermal resistor or other configurations of thermal sensitive material, such as in the form of wiring, wherein the electrical resistance of the material changes as the temperature of the material changes. Accordingly, by passing an electrical current through the thermal resistor or other material and measuring the resistance, the temperature at thermal sensor 494 can be measured.
  • thermal sensor 494 comprises the wiring out of a conventional linear RTD (resistance thermal device) probe. As depicted in Figure 29, the linear wiring has been coiled into a substantially flat circular configuration.
  • sensing element 494 is comprised of platinum but can also be comprised of nickel, copper, nickel-iron or other thermal resistance materials. Extending from thermal sensor 494 within cavity 492 is signal wiring 486. Signal wiring 486 is used for passing a current through thermal sensor 494. The remainder of cavity 492 is filled with an insulative plug 496 which surrounds signal wiring 486.
  • insulative plug 496 is comprised of a ceramic such as aluminum oxide (alumina). Other types of insulation can also be used. The above configuration of thermal sensor 494 and the positioning of insulative plug 496 focuses the temperature sensing path of thermal sensor 494 toward end wall 490.
  • a hole 497 is formed through base floor 112 of floor 110.
  • a tubular collar 498 is mounted, such as by welding, to the bottom surface of base floor 112 so as to encircle hole 497.
  • a flange 499 outwardly projects from the free end of collar 498.
  • First end 482 of temperature probe 480 is advanced through tubular collar 498 so that mounting flange 484 of temperature probe 480 biases against flange 499.
  • a clamp 493 such as a hinged tri-clamp or any other type of clamp, is then used to removably secure flanges 484 and 499 together. In this secure but removable configuration, at least a portion of first end 482 of temperature probe 480 projects past the interior surface of base floor 112 and into chamber 60.
  • end face 485 is spaced apart from the interior surface of base floor 112 by a distance in a range between about 1 mm to about 5 mm. Other distances can also be used.
  • mixing bag 202 biases directly against end face 485 of temperature probe 480. This biasing force increases as mixing bag 202 is filled with the solution.
  • temperature probe 480 measures the surface temperature of mixing bag 202, and thus the temperature of the solution therein, without penetrating mixing bag 202 or being in direct contact with the solution. As such, there is no need to sterilize or clean temperature probe 480 as fluid preparation system 10 switches between the manufacture of different batches or types of solution. To accurately determine the temperature of the solution, the sensed temperature is calibrated to offset the thermal lag of mixing bag 202. Accuracy of the measured temperature depends in part on end face 485 of temperature probe 480 being clean and being in intimate contact with mixing bag 202. In the depicted embodiment, temperature probe 480 is mounted on base floor 112 so as to utilize the weight of the solution in maintaining intimate contact between temperature probe 480 and mixing bag 202 throughout the process.
  • end face 485 of temperature probe 480 can be positioned flush with or below the interior surface of base floor 112.
  • temperature probe 480 can be mounted on other portions of floor 102 or on side wall 24. It is also appreciated that temperature probe 480 can be mounted in any number of fixed or removable manners to tank assembly 20.
  • filtration system 500 comprises a valve 502 which splits delivery tube 420 into a first leg 504 and a discrete second leg 506.
  • valve 502 can simply comprise a tee joint coupled with delivery tube 420 and legs 504 and 506 acting in combination with external clamps which selectively close around either first leg 504 and/or second leg 506.
  • external clamps which selectively close around either first leg 504 and/or second leg 506.
  • each leg 504 and 506 Coupled with each leg 504 and 506 is a pressure sensor 508 and one or more filters 510.
  • the type and number of filters 510 depends upon the material being processed and the desired properties of the end product.
  • filters 510 can comprise conventional bacterial filters to facilitate sterilization of the solution.
  • valves 502 and 511 are set so that the solution passes through only one of legs 504 or 506.
  • valves 502 and 511 can initially be set so that the solution entering from delivery tube 420 passes through first leg 504.
  • the fluid back pressure is sensed by pressure sensor 508a.
  • valves 502 and 511 are switched so that the fluid passes through leg 506. Filters 510a are then replaced with clean filters.
  • filters 510b become occluded the process is repeated. Accordingly, by using this configuration of filtration system 500, filtration of the solution can be continuous.
  • Pressure sensor 512 is either directly or indirectly coupled with pump 424 ( Figure 1) so as to control the flow rate of solution through delivery tube 420. That is, as the pressure drops at pressure sensor 512 due to the increased occlusion of filters 510a or 510b, the speed of pump 424 can be increased so that the flow rate of solution is relatively constant. Likewise, when filtration system 500 switches to new filters causing the pressure to increase, pump 424 can be slowed. Where it is not desired to have a constant flow rate, pressure sensor 512 is not required.
  • filter 514 is used for final sterilization of the solution and can be considered either part of filtration system 500 or dispenser assembly 700.
  • filtration system 500 can comprise three or more discrete legs.
  • filtration system 500 need not include two or more separate legs but can simply comprise a pressure sensor and one or more filters through which deliver tube 420 passes. In this embodiment, however, it is necessary to stop the filtration process to replace the filters.
  • pressure sensor(s) 508 are not required. In theses embodiments, filters 510 can simply be replaced after predetermined periods of use.
  • the various pressure sensors 508 and 512 depicted in Figure 31 can comprise any conventional pressure sensor which is placed in direct communication with the solution so as to measure the fluid pressure thereof. In an alternative embodiment, however, pressure sensors can be positioned so that they are not in direct fluid communication with the solution. As a result, it is not necessary to sterilize or clean the pressure sensors as fluid preparation system 10 is switched between the manufacture of different batches or types of solution.
  • FIG. 32 depicted in Figure 32 is one embodiment of a pressure sensor assembly 516.
  • Assembly 516 comprises a pressure sensor 517, a diaphragm 518, a sensing port 519, and a clamp 521.
  • Sensing port 519 comprises a tubular stem 520 projecting from delivery tube 420.
  • Stem 520 bounds a passageway 523 that communicates with delivery tube 420.
  • Encircling and radially outwardly projecting from the free end of stem 520 is a flange 524.
  • Flange 524 terminates at an engagement face 526.
  • a continuous sealing groove 528 is recessed on engagement face 526 so as to encircle passageway 523.
  • diaphragm 518 has a first side 530 and an opposing second side 532.
  • a sealing ridge 534 and 536 outwardly projects in a continuous loop from first side 530 and second side 532, respectively.
  • Recessed into second side 532 within the area bounded by sealing ridge 536 is a pocket 538.
  • Diaphragm 518 is removably seated on engagement face 526 of sensing port 519 so that sealing ridge 536 is received within sealing groove 528. In this configuration, diaphragm 518 covers the opening to passageway 523 with pocket 528 being aligned therewith.
  • Pressure sensor 517 is a standard "off-the-shelf" item such as a conventional digital or analog pressure transducer.
  • pressure sensor 517 comprises the Mini Pressure Transducer produced by Anderson Instrument Co. out of Fultonville, New York.
  • pressure sensor 517 comprises a body 540 having a tubular stem 542 projecting therefrom. Encircling and outwardly projecting from the free end of stem 542 is a flange 544.
  • An engagement face 546 is formed on one side of flange 544.
  • Engagement face 546 encircles an opening 548 in which a sensor 550 is movably disposed.
  • a continuous sealing groove 552 is recessed on engagement face 546 so as to encircle opening 548.
  • Engagement face 546 is received on first side 530 of diaphragm 518 so that sealing ridge 534 is received within sealing groove 552.
  • sensor 550 is biased against first side 530 of diaphragm 518 opposite of pocket 538.
  • Clamp 521 is used to secure flanges 524 and 544 together so that diaphragm 518 seals against sensing port 519 and so that sensor 550 is held against diaphragm 518.
  • the seal prevents solution passing through delivery tube 420 and entering passageway 523 from leaking out between flange 524 and diaphragm 518.
  • clamp 521 comprise a conventional hinged tri-clamp such as available from Tri-Clover out of Kenosha, Wisconsin.
  • any other type of removable clamp or securing structure can be used that produces the desired coupling.
  • the solution passing through delivery tube 420 enters passageway 523 of sensing port 519 and pushes against diaphragm 518.
  • diaphragm 518 pushes against sensor 550.
  • Pocket 538 is formed so as to decrease the thickness of diaphragm 518 at that location, thereby increasing the pressure sensitivity thereat. Readings or signals from sensor 550 are used to determine the actual or relative fluid pressure of the solution.
  • Diaphragm 518 is typically molded, such as by compression or injection molding, from a soft flexible material.
  • materials that can be used include neoprene, silicone, EPDM, Viton, Kalrez, Teflon, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyolefin, Buna, and nitrile rubber as well as other moldable plastic compounds.
  • the above materials can also be reinforced with glass, carbon, or other types of fibers.
  • the portion of diaphragm 518 that pushes against sensor 550 typically has a thickness in a range between 2 mm to about 20 mm with about 3 mm to about 10 mm being more common.
  • FIGS. 34 and 35 are alternative embodiments of diaphragm 518 wherein like elements are identified by like reference characters.
  • a diaphragm 554 wherein a central sensing portion 556, i.e., the area bounded by sealing ridges 534 and 536, has a substantially uniform thickness. This thickness can be any desired amount to produce the desired sensitivity.
  • a diaphragm 558 wherein a central sensing portion 560 tapers on each side from sealing ridges 534 and 536 to a central flat portion 562.
  • one side of central sealing portion 560 can be flat as shown with diaphragm 554 while the other side is tapered as shown with diaphragm 558.
  • Other combinations and alternative configurations can also be used.
  • the solution passes through filtration system 500, the solution is dispensed either directly into its end use environment or into a container.
  • the solution can simply be dispensed from delivery tube 420 in any conventional manner. Where the solution must remain sterile after passing through the filters, it is necessary that a sterile fluid coupling be formed between delivery tube 420 and the end storage container.
  • Dispensing system 700 comprises a delivery assembly 702, a collector assembly 704, and a sterilizer 706.
  • Delivery assembly 702 comprises filter 514, a flexible extension tube 712, and a rigid fill tube 714.
  • Filter 514 is a final sterilizing filter which is designed so that all solution passing therethrough is completely sterile or is at least filtered to the desired parameters of the end product solution. As such, the solution prior to filter 514 need not be sterile.
  • Filter 514 has an inlet port 708 and an outlet port 710. Inlet port 708 is configured to selectively and removeably couple with delivery tube 420 while outlet port 710 is coupled in sealed fluid communication with a first end 711 of extension tube 712.
  • Fill tube 714 is coupled in sealed fluid communication with a second end 713 of extension tube 712.
  • fill tube 714 comprises a tubular, cylindrical body 715 having an interior surface 716 and an exterior surface 718 each extending between a first end 720 and an opposing second end 722.
  • Interior surface 716 bounds a channel 724 longitudinally extending through fill tube 714.
  • a flange 728 Encircling and radially outwardly projecting from first end 720 of body 715 is a flange 728.
  • Projecting from first end 720 of body 715 in longitudinal alignment therewith is a barbed port 717. Barbed port 717 is received within second end 713 of extension tube 712 so as to affect a sealed fluid communication therewith.
  • any conventional form of connection can be used to fluid couple fill tube 714 to extension tube 712.
  • a tapered, substantially frustaconical nose 730 Formed at second end 722 of body 715 is a tapered, substantially frustaconical nose 730. Nose 730 bounds an outlet 732 in fluid communication with channel 724. A locking groove 734 encircles and is recessed into exterior surface 718 of nose 730. As depicted in Figure 37 and 38, mounted within outlet 732 and secured to interior surface 716 of nose 70 are a pair of crossing puncture blades 736. Each blade 736 has a sharpened outer edge 738 that projects beyond the end of nose 730
  • a cap 740 is removeably mounted on second end 722 of fill tube 714 so as to seal off outlet 732.
  • Cap 740 has an annular substantially frustaconical side wall 742 that terminates at a end plate 744.
  • Side wall 742 has an interior surface 746 and an exterior surface 748 that each extend between a first end 750 and an opposing second end 752.
  • Radially inwardly projecting from interior surface 746 at first end 750 is an annular locking ridge 754.
  • Encircling and radially outwardly projecting from exterior surface 748 at second end 752 is a barb 756.
  • fill tube 714 is made of a metal, such as stainless steel, while cap 740 is formed of a molded plastic. In other embodiment, fill tube 714 can also be made of rigid plastics, composites, or other materials.
  • delivery system 702 is sterilized as a unit such as by ionizing radiation or other conventional sterilization techniques.
  • Collector assembly 704 as shown in Figure 36 comprises a flexible extension tube 760 having a first end 762 and an opposing second end 764. Second end 764 of extension tube 760 is coupled in sealed fluid communication with a container 765.
  • Container 765 can comprise any rigid or flexible container used for holding sterile fluids.
  • Container 765 can be disposable or recyclable.
  • container 765 comprises a bag made of the same materials and methods as previously discussed with regard to mixing bag 202.
  • fill port 766 mounteded at first end 762 of extension tube 760 is a fill port 766.
  • fill port 766 comprises a tubular, substantially cylindrical body 767 having an interior surface 768 and an exterior surface 770 each extending between a first end 772 and an opposing second end 774.
  • Interior surface 768 bounds a channel 776 longitudinally extending through fill port 766.
  • Encircling and outwardly projecting from exterior surface 770 at first end 772 is an annular flange 778.
  • Encircling and outwardly projecting from exterior surface 770 at second end 774 is an annular barb 780.
  • Second end 774 of fill port 766 is received in sealed fluid communication within first end 762 of extension tube 760.
  • other conventional connections can be used to couple fill port 766 with extension tube 760.
  • fill port 766 can be heat sealed, welded, or otherwise secured to extension tube 760.
  • Fill port 766 terminates at an end face 781 at first end 772.
  • Interior surface 768 of fill port 766 includes a sloping, substantially frustaconical seat 782 extending from end face 781.
  • Seat 782 bounds an opening 784 to channel 776.
  • Mounted on end face 781 so as to extend across opening 784 is a membrane 786. In this configuration, membrane 786 seals opening 784 closed.
  • Membrane 786 is typically made of a sheet of polymeric material that can be selectively punctured.
  • collector assembly 704 In its fully assembled state, as depicted in Figure 36, collector assembly 704 is completely sealed. In this configuration, collector assembly 704 is sterilized such as by ionizing radiation or other conventional techniques of sterilization.
  • Hose clamp 757 comprises a rack 758 on which a flexible hose or tube is selectively placed.
  • a piston 761 selectively raises and lowers an arm 759 projecting therefrom. When arm 759 is in the lowered position, arm 759 biases against the hose so as to pinch the hose closed. As arm 759 is raised, fluid is allowed to flow through the hose.
  • sterilizer 706 comprises a housing 790 having a front face 792 extending between opposing side faces 794 and 796. Also extending between side faces 794 and 796 is a top face 798. As depicted in Figure 43, a cavity 808 is formed within housing 790. Projecting from each side face 794 and 796 so as to be in alignment with cavity 808 is an electron beam generator 800. Each generator 800 communicates with cavity 808 through a corresponding channel formed on housing 790. Although not required, in the embodiment depicted, generators 800 are disposed at an angle ⁇ in a range between about 15° to about 45° relative to the horizontal.
  • an electron beam generator is the E-Beam module available from USHIO America out of Cyprus, California.
  • Each electron beam generator 800 generates an electron field within cavity 808 so as to sterilize cavity 808 and all structure placed therein.
  • cavity 808 is continually flooded with a non-oxidizing gas, such as nitrogen.
  • the non-oxidizing gas displaces any oxygen from within cavity 808.
  • Subjecting oxygen to the electron field could convert the oxygen to ozone which could produce a corrosive effect.
  • housing 79 is formed of stainless steel or other shielding materials in sufficient thickness to block any harmful emission of the electron field.
  • plunger 802 which operates a tubular piston 804.
  • Tubular piston 804 bounds a passageway 806 ( Figure 42) that communicates with cavity 808.
  • piston 804 is configured to receive fill tube 714 within passageway 806 so that flange 728 of fill tube 714 rests on piston 804. In this configuration, second end 722 of fill tube 714 is received within cavity 808.
  • plunger 802 and piston 804 are configured to securely retain fill tube 714 when disposed therein and to selectively raise and lower fill tube 714.
  • Shuttle assembly 816 comprises a female shuttle 818 and a male shuttle 820.
  • Female shuttle 818 has opposing side faces 822 and 824 with a front face 826 and a top face 828 each extending therebetween.
  • Front face 826 has a sloping step shaped configuration. Specifically, front face 826 has a substantially vertical upper portion 830, a substantially vertically lower portion 832, and an outwardly sloping central portion 834 extending therebetween.
  • Recessed into and extending along the length of front face 826 so as to have substantially the same sloping configuration as front face 826 is an open channel 836.
  • Collar 840 has an interior face 842 with a substantially U-shaped groove 844 recessed thereon.
  • Male shuttle 820 has a front face 848. As discussed and depicted below in greater detail, front face 848 of male shuttle 820 is configured to complementarily mate in close tolerance with front face 826 of female shuttle 818 while leaving channel 836 open. In general, shuttles 818 and 820 are operable between one of three positions. In a first position as depicted in Figure 42, front face 848 of male shuttle 820 is separated from front face 826 of female shuttle 818 with both front faces 826 and 848 being disposed outside of housing 790. In a second position, male shuttle 820 is moved to mate with female shuttle 818. In the third position, as depicted in Figure 45, mated shuttles 818 and 820 are moved into housing 790 such that retaining collar 840 is disposed in alignment with cavity 808.
  • fill tube 714 is slidably received within opening 806 of tubular piston 804 as previously discussed and depicted in Figure 43.
  • electron beam generators 800 are activated so that the electron field is generated within cavity 808, thereby sterilizing second end 722 of fill tube 714.
  • Extension tube 712 of delivery assembly 702 ( Figure 36) is placed on rack 758 of hose clamp 757 ( Figure 41). Arm 759 is then lowered so as to temporarily close off extension tube 712.
  • a cap remover 860 is removeably slid within groove 844 of retaining collar 840.
  • cap remover 860 has an interior surface 862 and an opposing exterior surface 864 each extending between a top end face 866 and a bottom end face 868. Encircling and radially outwardly projecting from exterior surface 864 at top end face 866 is an annular flange 870.
  • Interior surface 862 bounds a channel 872 that extends through cap remover 860.
  • Interior surface 862 comprises cylindrical portion 876 that extends from bottom end face 868 and an inwardly sloping frustaconical tapered portion 878 that extends from top end face 866 to cylindrical portion 876. In this configuration, cylindrical portion 876 has a diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of cap 740 at barb 756.
  • Cap remover 860 is manually positioned within retainer collar 840 by sliding flange 870 into groove 844. Once positioned, male shuttle 820 is mated with female shuttle 818 so as to lock cap remover 860 in place. The mated shuttles are then moved into housing 790, as illustrated in Figures 45 and 46, so that cap remover 860 is vertically aligned and exposed to cavity 808.
  • piston 804 drives fill tube 714 downward causing second end 752 of cap 740 to pass through cap remover 860.
  • Annular barb 756 is resiliently compressed as it passed through cylindrical portion 876 of the interior surface of cap remover 860, but then radially outwardly expands as it passes bottom end face 868. As a result, annular barb 756 rests against bottom end face 868, thereby locking cap 740 in engagement with cap remover 860.
  • piston 804 then moves fill tube 714 back to the raised position.
  • cap remover 860 As a result of the engagement between cap remover 860 and cap 740, cap 740 is removed from fill tube 714 and retained on cap remover 860.
  • second end 722 of fill tube 714 is openly exposed within cavity 808 of housing 790. Due to the electron field maintained within cavity 808, however, second end 722 of fill tube 714 remains sterilized.
  • cap remover 860 is replaced in retaining collar 840 with fill port 766 of collector assembly 704 ( Figure 36).
  • Extension tube 760 is positioned within channel 836.
  • shuttles 818 and 820 are closed locking fill port 766 and extension tube 760 therebetween.
  • the mated shuttles are then slid within housing 790 so that fill port 766 is vertically disposed below and in communication with cavity 808. The exterior of fill port 766 is thus sterilized through exposed to the electron field.
  • fill tube 714 is again lowered. In so doing, as shown in Figure 51, blades 736 of fill tube 714 puncture membrane 786. Once membrane 786 is punctured, nose 730 of fill tube 714 engages against seat 782, thereby forming a fluid coupling between fill tube 714 and fill port 766. Again, it is appreciated that throughout the process the electron field is maintained within cavity 808 so that all parts therein are sterilized.
  • clamp 757 ( Figure 41) is opened allowing the flow of solution through delivery assembly 702 and into collecting assembly 704, thereby filling container 765.
  • a scale 882 is disposed below container 765.
  • clamp 757 is again closed, thereby closing off the flow of solution.
  • a tube heat sealer 880 which comprises two opposing heated elements as shown in Figure 43, is then closed on opposing sides of extension tube 760, thereby pinching and heat sealing extension tube 760 closed. Extension tube 760 is then either removed from the shuttles or cut above the seal so as to allow removal of container 765 containing the sterile solution.
  • Housing 790 and shuttles 818 and 820 are configured to shield the emission of the electron field outside of cavity 808.
  • channel 836 cannot be shielded closed in that extension tube 760 is disposed therein.
  • the electrons entering cavity 808 travel in straight paths and dissipate once they encounter the shielding.
  • channel 836 is curved in a step-like fashion as previously discussed. This curvature of channel 836 ensures that the electrons entering channel 836 contact the wall bounding channel 836 prior to exiting therethrough.
  • channel 836 can be curved, bent, or otherwise shielded or blocked in a variety of different configurations so as to prevent a straight path from cavity 808 to the exterior.
  • sterilizer 706 electron beam generators are used for sterilizing parts within or communicating with cavity 808.
  • other forms of radiation such as ultra violet light
  • thermal sterilization can be used such as by the use of steam.
  • vapor phase sterilization can be used such as through the use of hydrogen peroxide or chlorine dioxide.
  • each of the structural components such as the mixing bag, feed bag, mixer, tubes, pressure sensor diaphragm, connectors, ports, filters, and delivery assembly are designed and manufactured so as to be considered disposable components. Once the old components are removed, they are replaced with clean components. The fluid preparation process can then be repeated for a new solution without the need for cleaning, sterilization, or the risk of cross contamination.
  • the solution need not be sterile or pure, some or all of the components can be repeatedly used and then discarded when worn or when an incompatible solution is to be prepared.
  • each of the structural components that the solution contacts be made from the same resin family.
  • each of the above identified structural components and any others that directly contact the solution or feed component can be made of polyethylene.
  • the structural components that contact the solution satisfy USP Class 6 testing for biological products and/or that they have no cytotoxic effects.
  • the different components can be made of different materials and need not satisfy the above testing.
  • inventive fluid preparation system 10 can, in various embodiments, include manually actuated components, electrically actuated components, and combinations thereof.
  • a central processing unit 890 as shown in Figure 1, is provided for controlling the components.
  • central processing unit 890 can be loaded with select programs for automating select operations of the fluid preparation system 10.
  • Fluid preparation system 10 and the structural components thereof provide a number of unique advantages over conventional fluid preparation systems.
  • the system enables a manufacturer or an end user to efficiently manufacture predefined amounts of a solution to meet a desired need, thereby avoiding short supply or the necessary storage of over supply.
  • the system can be used to rapidly make different batches or types of solutions without the costly delay or expense of having to clean or sterilize structural parts.
  • the mixers enable efficient mixing of the solution while minimizing high shearing, foaming or splashing that could be potentially detrimental to some solutions.
  • the feed bag enables efficient storage and dispensing of powder components while minimizing the possibility of potentially harmful components being emitted into the surrounding environment.
  • the final dispensing system provides an efficient way for quickly filling a number of different containers and switching between different solution batches while ensuring that the solution is sterile and sealed in a closed container.
  • Fluid preparation system 10 includes many discrete components, some of which are identified by section headings. It is appreciated that each of the disclosed components and alternatives thereof contain novel features and that each component can be used independently, in different assemblies of fluid preparation system 10, or in systems other than fluid preparation systems. For example, it is appreciated that each of the various components can be mixed and matched depending on the type of solution to be made and whether or not the solution needs to be sterile. As such, different systems may have different benefits and be used in different ways.
EP03252338A 2002-04-12 2003-04-11 Appareils servant à la fabrication de raccords steriles pour fluides et leurs méthodes d'utilisation Withdrawn EP1352663A3 (fr)

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Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US402359 1989-09-05
1999-03-19
US37216202P 2002-04-12 2002-04-12
US372162P 2002-04-12
US10/402,359 US20030226857A1 (en) 2002-04-12 2003-03-28 Systems for forming sterile fluid connections and methods of use

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CN105381477A (zh) * 2015-12-03 2016-03-09 陈伟强 一种手术器械消毒处理系统
CN105396161A (zh) * 2015-12-23 2016-03-16 黄斌 一种护理用消毒器械
CN105477653A (zh) * 2016-02-16 2016-04-13 廖伟城 一种感染科用消毒柜
CN105797180A (zh) * 2016-04-15 2016-07-27 罗杰 一种医疗用器械消毒杀菌清洗装置
CN107802861A (zh) * 2017-12-27 2018-03-16 张莉笛 一种医疗消毒装置
CN109374385A (zh) * 2018-10-23 2019-02-22 苏杰 一种rna细胞分子检验装置
CN109715280A (zh) * 2016-06-17 2019-05-03 Drm穆勒有限公司 用于在柔性一次性容器中混合液体、液体与气体或固体的振动混合器
CN110339063A (zh) * 2019-08-12 2019-10-18 浙江福瑞喜药业有限公司 一种非终端灭菌处理的无菌混悬液药剂制备工艺

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EP1352684A2 (fr) * 2002-04-12 2003-10-15 Hynetics, LLC Procédé pour mélanger des solutions
EP1352685A2 (fr) * 2002-04-12 2003-10-15 Hynetics, LLC Récipient mélangeur
EP1352851A2 (fr) * 2002-04-12 2003-10-15 Hynetics, LLC Sac de transport et leurs procédés de utilisation
EP1369170A2 (fr) * 2002-04-12 2003-12-10 Hynetics, LLC Système d'agitateur pour mélanger des liquides et son procédé de préparation
EP1352684A3 (fr) * 2002-04-12 2005-04-27 Hynetics, LLC Procédé pour mélanger des solutions
EP1352685A3 (fr) * 2002-04-12 2005-04-27 Hynetics, LLC Récipient mélangeur
EP1352851A3 (fr) * 2002-04-12 2005-06-29 Hynetics, LLC Sac de transport et leurs procédés de utilisation
EP1369170A3 (fr) * 2002-04-12 2005-09-21 Hynetics, LLC Système d'agitateur pour mélanger des liquides et son procédé de préparation
CN104873999A (zh) * 2015-05-25 2015-09-02 芜湖锐进医疗设备有限公司 一种医疗器械的消毒装置
CN105363046B (zh) * 2015-10-29 2017-10-31 陈柯宇 一种用于医疗器械消毒的设备
CN105363046A (zh) * 2015-10-29 2016-03-02 刘洋 一种用于医疗器械消毒的设备
CN105381477A (zh) * 2015-12-03 2016-03-09 陈伟强 一种手术器械消毒处理系统
CN105396161A (zh) * 2015-12-23 2016-03-16 黄斌 一种护理用消毒器械
CN105396161B (zh) * 2015-12-23 2017-09-29 于春鹏 一种护理用消毒器械
CN105477653A (zh) * 2016-02-16 2016-04-13 廖伟城 一种感染科用消毒柜
CN105477653B (zh) * 2016-02-16 2018-06-01 廖伟城 一种感染科用消毒柜
CN105797180A (zh) * 2016-04-15 2016-07-27 罗杰 一种医疗用器械消毒杀菌清洗装置
CN105797180B (zh) * 2016-04-15 2018-05-29 杨霞 一种医疗用器械消毒杀菌清洗装置
CN109715280A (zh) * 2016-06-17 2019-05-03 Drm穆勒有限公司 用于在柔性一次性容器中混合液体、液体与气体或固体的振动混合器
CN107802861A (zh) * 2017-12-27 2018-03-16 张莉笛 一种医疗消毒装置
CN109374385A (zh) * 2018-10-23 2019-02-22 苏杰 一种rna细胞分子检验装置
CN109374385B (zh) * 2018-10-23 2021-04-23 江苏艾洛特医药研究院有限公司 一种rna细胞分子检验装置
CN110339063A (zh) * 2019-08-12 2019-10-18 浙江福瑞喜药业有限公司 一种非终端灭菌处理的无菌混悬液药剂制备工艺

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